Aspects of software development key terms

Data model

A model representing the data relevant to a proposed system.

Abstraction

The process of modelling relevant aspects of the external world in a program without representing unnecessary detail.

Modular structure

The organisation of a solution into separate modular parts with clear documented interfaces.

Iterative design

A design process in which the solution design is reviewed and refined, potentially using prototyping or an agile approach.

Critical path

The essential functionality or sequence of work that must be completed for the main solution to operate.

Prototype

An early version of a solution used to explore, implement and test ideas before further iterations.

Test data

Data selected and applied to a program to check the implementation for the presence of errors.

Acceptance testing

Testing with the intended user or users to check that the intended solution meets its specification.

Evaluation criterion

A specific quality or requirement used to judge how well a computer system meets its intended purpose.

Success criterion

An agreed, testable condition that indicates whether an aspect of a computer system has achieved the required standard.